The other side of Amsterdam is new and hip, and the New Islands reflect this notion. The once desolate islands, which are known as Oostelijk Havengebied (Eastern Harbor Area), have now evolved into a densely populated area full of modern architectural showpieces. Affectionately known as "new Venice," this area is now home to a cutting edge young crowd and contains residences designed from wide variety of young, innovative architects. These artists have joined this restorative project eagerly and built up the area with 8,000+ homes, all within a relatively short amount of time. The building structures pay homage to Old Amsterdam-- with the same tall, narrow structure, but each has a unique and modern twist. As with Old Amsterdam, each space in this densely populated area is utilized. Some of the buildings have terraces, built in garages and roof gardens -- each one varies. Boats are used for long distances since the area is devoid of cars. Eclectic, original bridges enable residents to go from one place to the other on foot. If you're a fan of modern architecture, you must visit the East Islands. It truly has to be seen to be appreciated in full.
The Lloyd Hotel Reflects the Spirit of New Amsterdam
Located on the East Islands is the modernized Lloyd Hotel. Built in 1921, it originally served as a European immigrants' hotel. In the years that followed, it was used by the Germans as a prison, and later became a detention center for young boys. Then in the 1990s it was transformed into a living/working space for artists, which set a precedent for what was to follow. At present, The Lloyd Hotel has been lovingly restored and is yet another showcase for young, ground-breaking architects and designers. Each vastly different room contains unique furnishings that reflect the personalities of their Dutch designers. One soundproof room (on occasion a DJ spins there) had exposed beams, peek-a-boo doors that look onto the vast library, a 24-hour restaurant and a massive bed that sleeps eight. Another was two levels, with a sprawling grand piano, a twenty foot mirror and a bright solid orange bathroom. Yet another had a large bathtub in the middle of the room atop the tattered concrete floors from years past. Some of the old tiling still remains in another original bathroom, which is exposed until the foldaway door is utilized for privacy. There is extra furniture in the hallways, and guests can help themselves to another chair or desk if needed during their stay. This hip hotel, with accommodations that vary from two to five stars, is the place to stay if you enjoy originality, modernity, elegance and watching beautiful people.
Nomads Restaurant - Hip and Happening
Nomads is way cool and full of a hot crowd. A ten minute cab ride from the Barbizon Hotel, this Moroccan/Middle Eastern restaurant serves delectable food on large trays as diners relax on comfy couches or lounge on pillows on the floor. Pita bread is used to dunk into hot and cold dips and sauces, and plates are doled out for the entrees, which can pose a bit of a problem when dining on your lap. However, this place is perfect if you're with a group of people, since things can get rowdy later on in the evening. There are veiled and costumed henna painters, performing belly dancers, foot massagers (yes, I partook), and tarot card readers milling about, ready to cater to the needs of your body and soul. The waiters are decked out in Middle Eastern digs from Dutch designer Aziz, and the music escalates as the evening progresses. There's a dance club in the basement where you can work off those calories from dinner.
Amsterdam is where the Old World meets the new, where history meets the hip, where trends are made, and the past is celebrated and revered. The natives are very proud of their city and rightly so. Visitors are given a warm reception wherever they go, so you are bound to have a fabulous time in this glorious metropolis where there's so much to see and experience.
